Historical documents
Cablegram unnumbered WASHINGTON, 7 May 1944, 1 a.m.
IMPORTANT FOLLOWING PERSONAL FROM BURTON TO HODGSON NO CIRCULATION
(1) I took particular steps to see that references in last speech
to Minister were cabled. I have checked and they were. [1]
(2) You may be wondering why Beasley has not been in Perkins'
talks referred to in reports. [2] News of death of nephew came at
moment when he was burning himself up in heavy committee work and
when we were in conflict with Americans. It was obvious he had to
let up and left conference on Tuesday afternoon returning on
Wednesday morning, only to make a statement in criticism of
American plan. [3] He saw statement only just before delivery and
felt strain of making it and went straight to bed. Meanwhile,
Perkins had asked to see him as result of letter sent her [4], but
he felt it was better to keep out of detailed overtable
discussion. He was able to come to election governing body on
Friday. His pressure returned to normal Thursday and setback has
done no harm, and has taught him he must take things quietly. I
shall watch him and advise you in relation to monetary conference
[5], but as he is no longer depressed and feeling fine, I think he
will be right now. The death of the youth had very severe effect.
(3) Wynes [6] has been ill and will have to receive attention on
return to Canada. He is better at the moment. I have therefore
tried to be active in three committees, and at the same time not
miss a step on employment issue which looks now to be a success.
When at conference, Beasley won the admiration of most for
straightforward manner and this made situation easy for me. Quite
sincerely, I believe Australia's position in international
negotiations has improved very much as a result of this
conference. Typical is action of local press in singling Beasley
out for special writeup as the most active and constructive
delegation. Governing body episode [7] was not brought about by
Minister's absence. It was politics of the lowest kind, as all
parties had personally complimented him on his leadership and
indicated support.
(4) By being active at every international conference, we shall
gradually establish our position. Our record so far at Food,
Relief and here is good as we have a policy to pursue and many
here remember Minister's two visits.
(5) American change of front on employment agreement [8] suggests
the present is opportune time for monetary conference and we
should keep our price high, knowing how anxious she is for
agreement.
(6) I am, of course, working in close touch with Minister and our
personal relation leaves nothing to be desired. He has placed a
lot of confidence in me, but I never move without consulting him
and giving him all relevant facts. He has a good grip on general
position and Australian interest, even though he might not always
be fully informed of details and past negotiations.
(7) It looks now as though we will establish, once and for all,
our interpretation of Article VII Our departmental work and inter-
departmental relations should be easier and our Minister's success
in relation to most difficult political matter, which no one else
was prepared to tackle, will be established. Beasley will not
hesitate to tell this to Cabinet and Parliament.
(8) Please see contents this message is not known as Beasley does
not wish anyone to know he had slight setback.
[AA:A3195, 1944, 1.17457/469/458]